Birth Control -- Barrier Methods
Barrier methods include the diaphragm, the cervical cap and condoms. These methods prevent pregnancy by blocking sperm from getting into the uterus. Barrier methods must be used every time you have sex.
Male condom
The male condom is a sheath placed over the erect penis before penetration, preventing pregnancy by blocking the passage of sperm.
A condom can be used only once. Some have a chemical added to kill sperm The addition of this spermicide, usually nonoxynol-9 in the
Most condoms are made from latex rubber, while a small percentage are made from lamb intestines (sometimes called "lambskin" condoms). Condoms made from a type of plastic called polyurethane have been marketed in the
Except for abstinence, latex condoms are the most effective method for reducing the risk of infection from the viruses that cause AIDS, other HIV-related illnesses, and other STDs. For people who are sensitive to latex, polyurethane condoms are a good alternative.
Some condoms are prelubricated. These lubricants do not increase birth control or STD protection. Non-oil-based lubricants, such as water or K-Y jelly, can be used with latex or lambskin condoms, but oil-based lubricants, such as petroleum jelly (Vaseline), lotions, or massage or baby oil, should not be used because they can weaken the condom and cause it to break.
Female Condom
The Reality Female Condom, approved by FDA in April 1993, consists of a lubricated polyurethane sheath shaped similarly to the male condom. The closed end, which has a flexible ring, is inserted into the vagina, while the open end remains outside, partially covering the labia.
The female condom, like the male condom, is available without a prescription and is intended for one-time use. It should not be used together with a male condom because they may slip out of place.
Diaphragm
Available by prescription only and sized by a health professional to achieve a proper fit, the diaphragm is a dome-shaped rubber disk with a flexible rim that works in two ways to prevent pregnancy. It covers the cervix so sperm can't reach the uterus, while a spermicide cream or jelly applied to the diaphragm before insertion kills sperm.
The diaphragm protects for six hours after it is inserted. For intercourse after the six-hour period, or for repeated intercourse within this period, fresh spermicide should be placed in the vagina with the diaphragm still in place. The diaphragm should be left in place for at least six hours after the last intercourse but not for longer than a total of 24 hours because of the risk of toxic shock syndrome (TSS), a rare but potentially fatal infection. Signs and symptoms of TSS include sudden fever, stomach upset, sunburn-like rash, and a drop in blood pressure.
Cervical cap.
The cervical cap is a soft rubber cup with a round rim, sized by a health professional to fit snugly around the cervix. It is available by prescription only and, like the diaphragm, is used with spermicide cream or jelly.
It protects for 48 hours and for multiple acts of intercourse within this time. Wearing it for more than 48 hours is not recommended because of the risk, though low, of TSS. Also, with prolonged use of two or more days, the cap may cause an unpleasant vaginal odor or discharge in some women.
Sponge.
The sponge, a disk-shaped polyurethane device containing the spermicide nonoxynol-9, is not currently marketed but may be sold again in the future. Inserted into the vagina to cover the cervix, the sponge is attached to a woven polyester loop for easier removal.
The sponge protects for up to 24 hours and for multiple acts of intercourse within this time. It should be left in place for at least six hours after intercourse but should be removed no more than 30 hours after insertion because of the risk, though low, of TSS.
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